Authentication

Research and authentication FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between a research enquiry and authentication?

A research enquiry is the first stage of authentication. Before a work can be seen by the authentication panel, it is necessary to complete preliminary research to find out if the work ties in with our records. research enquiries are completed without seeing the original artwork. Responses to research enquiries are sent via email.

The second stage of authentication requires that artworks are delivered to Perry Green to be examined by the authentication panel. After the panel meeting we will issue a letter confirming the opinion of the panel. We do not issue certificates of authentication.

Q: Do I need to send in the original artwork?

We do not need to see the physical artwork to complete a research enquiry but we do need digital images. If you would like your work to be seen by the authentication panel they do need to see the actual object. You will need to arrange for your work to be delivered to the Foundation in Perry Green between 7 and 10 days in advance of the meeting. Applicants are solely responsible for arranging and covering the cost of transport and insurance.

Q: Is the information I provide confidential or will it be made public?

All information you share with us is strictly confidential and will not be made public unless you request or give permission otherwise.

Q: How long will it take to receive a response to my research enquiry?

We aim to respond to enquiries within 12 weeks. Please let us know, however, if you have a specific deadline and we will do our best to accommodate it.

Q: I want to sell my Henry Moore artwork now. Do I need to wait for a response to my research enquiry?

We strongly recommend that works are withheld from sale and publication until a response has been received from the Foundation.

Q: What will I receive in response to my research enquiry?

Once our research is complete we will send you an email confirming whether the work is by Moore, whether the information submitted ties in with our records and, if the work is by Moore, how it is catalogued. We will also do our best to answer any specific questions you may have.

Q: Can I share the research with other people?

No. The outcome of the research enquiry is the opinion of the Henry Moore Foundation and is confidential and solely for your information. Please see our Disclaimer and Exclusion of Liability.

Q: What is the best way to send my work to the authentication panel?

We recommend sending artworks via a reputable fine art transport agent, particularly if sending works from outside the EU as they will be able to advise on the necessary customs procedures. Please liaise with the Foundation to arrange the delivery date to ensure that there is someone available to receive the work on arrival.

Q: Will my work be safe at the Foundation?

Your work will be kept in a secure storage area at all times. It is the sole responsibility of applicants to arrange suitable insurance and transportation. The Henry Moore Foundation will not accept responsibility for loss or damage to the artwork for any reason, whether theft, fire, leakage, accidents, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Q: What will I receive after my work has been seen by the authentication panel?

After the panel meeting we will issue a letter confirming whether the work is by Moore and, if applicable, how it is catalogued. We will also do our best to answer any specific questions you may have. Please be aware that we do not issue certificates of authenticity.

Q: How soon after the authentication panel meeting can I collect my work?

We request that works are collected within two weeks of the authentication panel unless special arrangements are made. You will be contacted after the authentication panel to arrange collection. If collection is not made within two weeks commercial storage rates apply.

Q: Will my work be destroyed if it is not considered genuine?

No. The Foundation facilitates the return of all work, irrespective of the outcome, to the owner. If the work is not authenticated, it will not be destroyed.

Q: If the panel does not consider the work to be by Henry Moore can I appeal?

If further evidence or information is made available it is at the discretion of the authentication panel as to whether the work should be subject to further review.

Q: Can I share the outcome of authentication with other people?

No. The outcome of the authentication panel is the opinion of the Henry Moore Foundation and is confidential and solely for your information. Please see our Disclaimer and Exclusion of Liability.

Q: How often does the authentication panel meet?

The authentication panel meets twice a year, once in spring and once in the autumn. Once confirmed, the dates are published on the website.

Q: I would like my work authenticated now, is that possible?

Works are authenticated at the authentication panel which meets twice a year. Very occasionally, we may be able to authenticate works at other times. If you have a special request please contact authentication@henry-moore.org

Q: Does the Henry Moore Foundation provide valuations?

No. We recommend that you contact a reputable auction house such as Bonhams, Christie’s, Sotheby’s.

Q: Where can I see Henry Moore’s catalogued works?

Works by Henry Moore are detailed in:

The six volume catalogue raisonné of sculptures by Henry Moore

The seven volume catalogue raisonné of drawings by Henry Moore, published by Lund Humphries

The four volume catalogue of Graphic Works published by Gérald Cramer

These are available in major libraries and archives. If the work you are researching cannot be found in the above sources it may have been catalogued since publication of the above volumes. It may therefore be recorded on the Foundation’s database and this will be checked as part of your research enquiry.